The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies and the Edo State Security Corps, has arrested 12 suspected kidnappers during coordinated clearance operations carried out in parts of Edo State.
The operations were conducted by troops of the 4 Brigade, under the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, as part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements operating in forested areas.
According to security sources, the clearance operations began on 12 May 2026 and covered key areas in Owan East Local Government Area and Esan South-East Local Government Area.
The targeted locations are believed to host criminal hideouts used by kidnapping syndicates responsible for terrorizing residents and commuters across parts of Edo State.
The exercise involved a joint deployment of:
Nigerian Army troops
Other security agencies
Edo State Security Corps
The combined team carried out coordinated forest sweeps, cordon-and-search operations, and targeted raids on suspected criminal camps.
During the operations, a total of 12 suspects were apprehended. Security operatives also recovered items suspected to be used in criminal activities, including mobile phones, motorcycles, and other logistics materials believed to support kidnapping operations.
